The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation carries forward the legacy of a woman whose life was defined by kindness, empathy, and compassion. Through its support of organizations that embody the essence of Virginia Toulmin, the Foundation continues to honor her heartfelt commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Upon her passing, Virginia allocated $140 million to a private charitable remainder trust, ensuring the continuation of her philanthropic endeavors. The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation was formed to advance her legacy. The Foundation is overseen by three trustees: Bill Villafranco, Walter Montaigne, and Alexander Sanger. Among them, Mr. Villafranco developed a close relationship with Virginia during the last fifteen years of her life.
One of the key legacies of Virginia’s life that the Foundation upholds is its unwavering commitment to being hands-on and deeply involved with the causes it supports. “Virginia was deeply engaged in her philanthropy,” Bill explains. “She didn’t just sit on boards; she took the time to get to know executive directors and organizational leaders. That’s where the core of her approach to giving shines through in our work. We’ve embraced the model she left us, and we actively engage with the recipients of our grants. We make an effort to connect with the leadership of the organizations, meet the scholarship recipients, and even participate in camps. We are hands-on philanthropists, and that’s one of the most vital aspects of how Virginia approached her giving.”
At the inception of the Foundation, the trustees hired a reputable firm to spend two and a half years interviewing families, friends, and community members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the many causes Virginia supported throughout her life. Through this extensive research, the trustees confirmed that she was deeply committed to empowering women and believed in creating opportunities for them to excel. She also recognized the vital role of the performing arts in life. Additionally, drawing from her background in nursing, Virginia was passionate about advancing the field of nursing, supporting medical research, and providing resources to combat mental illness and addiction.
“If you look through Virginia's lifetime, you will see that she cared deeply for people, and that is the single most important element in the Toulmin Foundation's work today. She had so much empathy and compassion,” says Bill. “She also created opportunities for women to thrive, and we want to stay true to that vision.”
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation is committed to transforming lives through social change and fostering a vibrant performing arts culture. It supports organizations in the performing arts—especially orchestral music, opera, ballet, and theater—with a focus on increasing opportunities for women artists. The Foundation also funds initiatives in arts education, social and educational services for children and families facing health challenges, and healthcare programs that support women, girls, and nurses while advancing medical research.
On an international scale, the Foundation is transforming the lives of women through initiatives such as a nursing school in Bangkok, Thailand. Over the past twenty years, the Foundation has supported the school, helping 450 women graduate and step into lives filled with opportunities for professional growth and financial stability.
To learn more about Virginia’s life, her legacy, and the ongoing global impact of the Foundation, visit toulminfoundation.org. Please note that the Toulmin Foundation’s funding is by invitation only.
"She also created opportunities for women to thrive, and we want to stay true to that vision.”